Easter -- a time to celebrate faith

April 16, 2006

Many religions have elements in common. Most value peace, teach respect for others and advocate justice. Many instill in their followers a sense of thankfulness. Nearly all religions share the belief that living one's faith is the way to become a better human being. Most people understand that they should treat their neighbors well and care for the needy -- both because their faith requires it and because it's the right thing to do. There are many shared convictions among religions. But Easter is unique to Christians. Today, more than 1.5 billion Christians the world over bow their heads in reverence and raise their voices in praise. This is the most solemn and, at the same time, the most joyous day on the Christian calendar. Easter is the essence of hope for life everlasting. In recent years, the Easter season also has become the time for introducing controversy about Jesus' life. Such discussions have found a niche in popular culture as well as in scholarly circles. They return each year as surely as the daffodils and the robins. There was "The Passion of the Christ" and "The Da Vinci Code." "The Holy Blood and the Holy Grail" and now the Gospel of Judas. Reinterpretations of the New Testament and new angles on the Virgin Mary have made the covers of Time, Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report. It's all very interesting indeed. But, for Christians, the profundity of the mystery of Jesus surpasses any intellectual diversion. Today is a celebration of rebirth in the wake of sacrifice and suffering. This holiday symbolizes a humble journey of faith, unshaken by the challenges of life. Happy Easter.